OCD in Women: Symptoms, Treatment and Causes

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in women is characterized by the presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both, and can present with varying degrees of severity. 

Although OCD affects both men and women, it is more likely to occur among women, who may present varying or more pronounced symptoms than their male counterparts. 

Women with OCD often experience obsessions centered around cleaning and contamination. Additionally, somatic OCD, which involves obsessions concerning sensations in the body, occurs at a higher rate in females. Common symptoms also include repeatedly checking on things, counting, obsession with routine and order, collecting, and hoarding. 

These compulsions and obsessions can significantly impact many different aspects of an individual’s life, including work, school, and relationships in several adverse ways. A large number of women experience worsening OCD symptoms leading up to their menstrual period.

Most often, the onset of OCD in women begins during adolescence or adulthood and typically progresses over time. This progression can be exacerbated by hormonal shifts, including during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause. 

OCD occurs more commonly in females during these life stages, whereas among men, it tends to start more commonly in childhood. The exact cause of OCD is thought to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and potential brain abnormalities. 

Symptoms may initially present subtly and can be indistinguishable from normal behaviors until they reach a point where they become detrimental and all-consuming. Additionally, personal crises, stress, abuse, or other negative events can trigger the onset of OCD.

OCD does affect women and does so more commonly than men during their adolescent and adult years. Females with OCD may also experience higher rates of coexisting mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. 

The exact presentation and severity of OCD can vary widely among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. Some individuals may experience debilitating symptoms for extensive periods of the day, which can occur intermittently or constantly. These symptoms often worsen due to external stressors or life influences and may be associated with worse symptoms during pregnancy, particularly premenstrual periods, and can be a considerable challenge. 

They may also experience higher onset of harm OCD which revolves around the obsessions and concerns stemming from fears of harming others or oneself. Women may also have perinatal OCD after childbirth or during pregnancy, where obsessions with caregiving as well as fears of harming the baby can be particularly pronounced.

The impact of OCD on everyday life varies widely among individuals and there is no uniform way in which it presents itself or affects daily activities. 

While some individuals with OCD can function normally, particularly with effective treatment from facilities like Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches, others may find their symptoms severely disruptive. 

OCD can make it challenging for individuals to engage in basic functions such as eating or drinking and may lead to avoidance behaviors due to feared contaminations and withdrawal from other individuals. 

This disorder can significantly impede work, and interpersonal relationships, and co-occur with other mental health conditions. For individuals who are exhibiting signs of OCD, it is important to seek treatment before these symptoms become overwhelming. 

Individuals do not need to wait until their condition is having adverse impacts on their lives to seek out treatment instead, interventions will be customized to their unique needs. 

Effective therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, and in some cases, medications, are available to help manage concerns related to OCD and develop a treatment plan that allows individuals to live with their condition and perform at a high functioning rate.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment is available at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. Our staff is here to guide you toward a path of healing and improved mental wellness. We serve patients from Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, Port St. Lucie FL, Beau Rivage West FL, Melbourne FL, Palm Bay FL, and surrounding areas.